Instruction – Trajectory 1-2-3
Developing a skilled chipping and pitching game requires the ability to influence trajectory and spin. Having the ability to hit your two most lofted wedges, three different trajectories, will give you the ability to cover many shots around the green.
Let’s consider “Trajectory 1” the lowest trajectory with the most amount of roll. “Trajectory 2” is our mid-trajectory with mid-roll and “Trajectory 3” is our high-trajectory shot (excluding a flop shot) with the least amount of roll.
As with any shots around the green, our set up is one of the most critical ingredients in successfully pulling off each of these shots. For each of these shots we will be consistent with the following set up criteria: Start with your feet close together (one club head in between shoes) and 60% of your weight on your lead foot.
Now, make the following ball position and club face adjustments for each shot:
Trajectory 1
Play your ball in line with your trail big toe with the club face square. In this set up position, the shaft will be leaning slightly towards the target or hands in front of the ball.
Trajectory 2
Play your ball in the center of your stance with the club face slightly open. In this set up position, the shaft will be in a more neutral position. Aim your body slightly left of the target (opposite for left-hander) to compensate for the club face being slightly open.
Trajectory 3
Play your ball in line with your lead big toe with the club face significantly open. In this set up position, the shaft will be in a neutral position. Aim your body further of the left of the target (opposite for left-hander) than for the previous shot to compensate for the club face being further open.
Advanced Player Tip
As you start to master Trajectory 1-2-3 you can begin to experiment with in between shots such as a 1.5 or 2.5. Those will help you out in situations where Trajectory 1-2-3 is close but needs adjusting.